As the season of love kicks off, Southern Illinois is coming together to show its big heart! The 5th Annual “Together We CAN” Canned Soup Drive begins on Valentine’s Day, and this year, organizers are hoping to spread even more love throughout the region by collecting cans of soup to benefit neighbors in need.
The drive will run from February 14 to April 14, with a goal to surpass a past impressive record of 53,000 cans of soup. Canned soup, a staple in many pantries, is not only easy to store, but also serves as a comforting meal that can make a big difference for those struggling to put food on the table.
“This is our fifth year, and we are excited to bring the community together once again,” said Dale Fowler, founder and chairman of the Fowler Bonan Foundation. “Soup is such an affordable and heartfelt way to help others. Every can we collect is one more meal that will warm the hearts and bellies of families in our area.”
How You Can Help
The drive isn’t just about donations — it’s also about community involvement. Organizers are calling on local businesses, schools, and residents to get creative with drop-off locations. If you’re a business owner, you can set up a drop box or a soup collection display at your location. You can even spice things up by making it fun — and sharing your creative displays with the community through photos and videos!
“We encourage everyone to think outside the box when it comes to their displays,” said drive organizer, Amy Oxford. “We would love to see your creativity and share the love on our social media pages.”
Becoming a Partner or Sponsor
Organizers are also seeking partners and sponsors to help make this year’s drive even more successful. Financial sponsors are particularly needed, as monetary donations will be used to purchase additional pallets of soup from small, local businesses across Southern Illinois. By supporting the drive, sponsors will be helping not only those in need, but also boosting the local economy.
Sponsors’ logos will be included in promotional flyers, and they’ll receive visibility through various media outlets as part of the campaign. Organizers are also hoping to collaborate with local media partners to help spread the word and promote the event further.
“We want to make this a community-wide effort,” said Fowler “The more partners and sponsors we have, the more we can give back to the community and help those who need it most.”
Get Involved Today!
From donations of soup to setting up drop-off locations or making financial contributions, there are many ways for residents of Southern Illinois to participate. With your help, this year’s drive can make an even bigger impact than ever before. Let’s all work together to make this community a little warmer, one can at a time.
So, how will you show your love for the community this Valentine’s Day? Whether you donate a can, volunteer, or become a sponsor, there’s no better way to spread warmth and care than by participating in the 5th Annual “Together We CAN” Canned Soup Drive.
For more information on how to get involved, or to learn how your business can serve as a drop-off location or sponsor, please contact the Fowler Bonan Foundation at fowlerbonanfoundation@gmail.com or by calling 618-926-3062.
